The first goal in this season’s Cup Finals came after just 2 minutes when the side from the Potteries seized the initiative with a Jamilla Palmer finish. Their lead was quickly doubled when Faye McCoy also slotted home for the holders, giving them a strong 2-0 lead after just 5 minutes.

There were fears of a one sided affair after Stoke’s dominant start, however Sporting Khalsa soon found their feet and began to play some good football . They made some promising attacks on the Stoke City goal, however could not find the net.

Shortly before the interval, Abby Hunt slipped through the Khalsa defence and added a third for the Potters, taking them to a 3-0 advantage after 41 minutes.

Despite the score line, Khalsa remained positive and came out for the second half refreshed and determined to press on against the Stoke side. They were duly rewarded after 56 minutes when Kelly Williams pulled a goal back for the former FC Reedswood side, a special moment as it was their 1st goal in 4 Ladies Challenge Cup Finals against Stoke City.

Shortly after, the Potters were given the opportunity to wrap up the tie with a penalty kick, however a great save from Justine Lewis kept Khalsa fighting on. The tie was finally sealed after 77 minutes when Ashleigh Hayes finished for Stoke City with the final goal of the game, restoring the 3 goal cushion, which saw Stoke City lift the trophy for the 11th time in their history.

We would like to extend our thanks to Brocton FC for our use of their excellent facilities and for those in attendance who will surely have enjoyed an exciting game.